Why Well Water Testing Is Important To Those Not Using Public Systems

By Essie Osborn


The United States Environmental Protection agency goes to great lengths to ensure that the water supplies of the nation are safe. Unfortunately, approximately fifteen per cent of the population is not part of the public supply system and they normally have to rely on privately owned boreholes. These boreholes are not regulated in any way and it is up to the owner to make sure that they do well water testing in order to make sure that it is safe for drinking and other domestic uses.

It is imperative that owners of private boreholes have the quality of their water analyzed. In a study conducted by the Montana State University showed that almost forty per cent of the samples analyzed contained coliform bacteria and half of those samples had nitrate levels high enough to pose a serious health threat to those drinking it. If boreholes are not tested those using it may contract serious diseases.

There is a surprising number of biological, chemical and bacterial contaminants that can infect a borehole. Testing is expensive and time consuming and even the experts agree that it is not feasible to run comprehensive tests regularly. Instead, it is recommended that tests are conducted for nitrates and coliform bacteria, both of which are common and that can cause disease in both animals and humans.

The threat of using borehole products should be taken seriously. Tests have shown that there is a number of serious conditions that can be contracted if using contaminated borehole products. This includes dysentery, hepatitis and even some of the more dangerous neurological disorders. In addition, people undergoing radical treatments such as chemotherapy are at particular risk. Vulnerable people such as infants and AIDS patients are at great risk.

There are many reasons why boreholes can become infected with harmful contaminants. Nearby mining operations, for example, can pollute the underground table. The use of lead piping can also play a seriously negative role. Seepage from sewage pipes or septic systems have proven to be a grave concern. Even pesticides and chemicals used at nearby farming or manufacturing operations can prove to be detrimental.

It is important to test a well that is used for domestic purposes at least once a year. The frequency should be increased if activities in the area increase. This may be mining or new farms. Also, if any member of the household falls ill the borehole should be one of the first suspects. This is especially true if the color of the content changes or if there is suddenly some sediment present.

Borehole owners have many choices about where they want test to be conducted. Many local authorities offer test facilities. Local universities also often offer such services. It is vital to use a registered and acknowledged facility, however. It may be useful to look for references and advice on the internet, especially from service centers that have experience in local conditions.

A private borehole should be tested regularly. The health and wellbeing of all that use it is at stake. There are good reasons why the government is so strict on the quality of public systems. Water needs to be clean and healthy. If this is not the case, disease and worse may ensue.




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